Midlands Fishing Show 2014

More than 10,000 visitors are expected to be hooked on fishing when the third Midlands Carp and Coarse Spectacular Show takes centre stage at the Ricoh Arena.

Talks from legendary carp anglers Darrell Peck, Terry Dempsey and Lee Jackson alongside book signings, slideshows and demonstrations in the Jaguar Exhibition Hall are set to attract the crowds to create a new record attendance for the show on Saturday, March 8 and Sunday, March 9.

Sixty-five exhibitors ranging from the UK’s top retailers to specialised manufacturers have already signed-up to the two-day show, where parking will be free at the Ricoh Arena.

The show attracted 8,500 visitors in its inaugural year in 2012, 9,000 people last year and organisers are confident of hitting the 10,000 mark in 2014.

Organiser Lee Apps from Redwood Events said the show was gaining momentum each year.

“This is now our third year at the Ricoh Arena and it is fantastic they have the facilities to help the show to grow,” he said.

“As always, we promise this is going to be the best Midlands Carp and Coarse Spectacular Show yet – and we don’t want to disappoint anyone.

“We have lined-up talks from the UK’s top anglers such as Darrell Peck, Terry Dempsey and Lee Jackson, there will be some fantastic offers for visitors to take advantage of and we will be giving out some free goody bags.

“We have organised two theatre rooms for the talks and staff from venues for carp and coarse fishing will be here to talk about their waters as well as from holiday companies for those who want to fish in Europe, Asia or Canada.

“The fact we have attracted major retailers and manufacturers as well as smaller companies underlines the increasing popularity of the show to different areas of the sport.

“Whether visitors want to find out about the latest fishing tackle or talk fishing tactics, there is plenty to keep people occupied throughout the two days.”

Chris Owen, senior events manager at the Ricoh Arena, said the venue had 15,000 sqm of flexible exhibition space to help events, such as the Midlands Carp and Coarse Spectacular Show, to expand year-on-year.

He said: “The Midlands Carp and Coarse Spectacular Show really does live up to its name. It has grown in size each year as well as increased visitor numbers which is a terrific endorsement to the organisers since they provide the attractions which anglers want to see.

“Our location in the heart of the Midlands and the UK is perfect for attracting anglers from all areas and the fact our event space is flexible means there is plenty of room for the show to grow even further.”

The show is open from 9am-4pm on March 8 and between 9am-3pm on March 9. Tickets are available for £5 from www.fishricoh.com with under-14s gaining free admittance along with members of Leamington Spa Angling Club, Birmingham Anglers Association and Lymm Angling Club.